Club form and Broos’ tactical plans will certainly play a role, but a strong performance against Zambia will no doubt be a factor when the coach names his final 23-player squad for the continental finals next month.
There is competition for places in several positions, and we pick five players for whom this could be a crucial chance to stake a claim.
Samukelo Kabini (Molde, Norway)
Kabini was thrust into the fray against Nigeria in the crucial FIFA World Cup qualifier in November, and the 21-year-old did well, though he was clearly nervous. There are likely three contenders for two left-back spots: Aubrey Modiba, who is certain to be on the flight to Morocco, Fawaaz Basadien, and Kabini. Basadien has been frozen out due to a lack of game time at Mamelodi Sundowns, but if Kabini does not impress against Zambia, Basadien could come back into contention as the more experienced option.
Sipho Mbule (Orlando Pirates)
Injuries to Themba Zwane and Patrick Maswanganyi have given Mbule an unexpected chance to revive his international career, but the jury is still out on how well he has adapted to the role behind the striker. It would be unfair to say he has struggled, but has he made the impact Broos would have hoped for? It’s telling that he gets the nod for this game ahead of Maswanganyi, but he may need a strong performance to secure his place.
Thalente Mbatha (Orlando Pirates)
Broos is likely to take no more than four central midfielders, with Teboho Mokoena, Yaya Sithole, and Bathusi Aubaas almost certain picks if fit. Thalente Mbatha has been around the Bafana setup for some time but has seen little action, while Broos also has the option of Luke Le Roux from Portsmouth. Mbatha is perhaps the more dynamic option but could struggle to make the cut if Broos opts for only three players in this position.
Tshepang Moremi (Orlando Pirates)
Moremi’s form for Orlando Pirates this season has been excellent, earning him a deserved call-up to the national team. But he plays in a position where competition is fierce, with Relebohile Mofokeng likely to return if fit and Oswin Appollis almost certain to go. Moremi will need a strong showing against Zambia, if given the chance, to boost his hopes.
Keletso Makgalwa (Sekhukhune United)
Another left-winger by trade, Makgalwa has likely been selected for a more central or right-sided attacking role, otherwise, his inclusion would be puzzling given the depth on the left. Despite his good form this season, he is not ahead of the three or four players already competing for that side. Broos may simply want to take a closer look but having last featured for Bafana at the 2019 COSAFA Cup, this represents a major opportunity for Makgalwa to impress.